Deputy’s Charges Dropped, Appeal Looms | Kansas City News

A judge just dropped all charges against Deputy Richard Fatherley in the 2025 death of Charles Adair — but prosecutors are already preparing to appeal, sending the case to the Kansas Court of Appeals. The deputy was facing second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter after video showed him kneeling on Adair’s back during his detention for traffic charges. Adair, 50, had a severe leg wound and other medical issues. While the judge’s ruling ends the immediate legal battle, the final decision on Fatherley’s fate — and whether he’ll face trial or keep his job — rests with the appeals court. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/4df8745ab6e30d19